We are always on the search for dope visual artists who do more than create innovative art but are truly immersed in the culture. Shelby Nicole is one of the most gifted new talents to emerge in New York.
Tell us how your journey into visual art began.
It started about a year and a half ago. My friend had a blog and wanted to start a podcast so when she came up with a name, I asked her what she was looking for in a logo. I ended up creating the Melanin’s Vibe logo which sprung my interest into drawing and painting. I started to sketch more and started painting little canvas’ and jackets. I’ve never been taught how to draw or paint so I started to challenge myself with bigger more detailed paintings.
Who are some of the people who have influenced or inspired you?
I love Sue Tsai, Basquiat, a Philly artist named Santana who’s known by Distortedd. I love the way they create pieces that are a visual representation of their thoughts and feelings.
How do you describe your approach to painting?
Usually, my pieces are inspired by how I’m feeling or what I may be going through at the moment so I just try to find a way to express it visually so sometimes it takes me a while. I’ll start to draw something or paint it and halfway through the whole idea will change or I switch a certain color or add different accents and other times I’ll have a creative burst of energy where I just go and see where my brushes take me.
What do you enjoy most about painting as opposed to other forms of expression?
What I enjoy most is that I could do anything go in any direction with my pieces it’s all on how I feel and what I want to portray. A person can’t say whether it’s good or bad and even if they don’t like a painting it still invoked some type of feeling.
Many of your pieces have strong political and social messaging. Is painting your medium to better inform and educate our community?
I’ve never really looked at it that way. I just try to create pieces that people can relate to or connect with.
Do you have any advice for aspiring artists?
Don’t doubt yourself. If you feel like you can do something go for it, don’t let negative thoughts cloud your potential. And surround yourself with the right people.
What’s next for you as far as painting?
Right now, I’m trying to get out a couple more pieces for an art show I am doing in March. I’m also looking into merchandise. I’m just debating on whether I’d hand-paint it or have it made for me. I’m not really sure. There is a lot I want to with my art. It’s just I’m not sure which direction I want to take it in just yet.
BE’N ORIGINAL
